Keys to Goal Setting
By Paul Dewland , BGGA Mental Performance Coach
Second , establish a shorter-term outcome goal . This is still an outcome goal , but typically 1-2 years out . In stating this goal , be realistic but also be sure to stretch yourself a bit . Examples can be something like winning a certain high-level tournament , gaining a ranking level or achieving a certain scoring average in tournaments .
A key habit of high-performing athletes ( or any discipline ) is that they have clearly defined goals , and a plan on how to achieve them .
The word “ goal ” can often take on many different meanings . It can refer to an outcome we achieve , for example win a certain tournament , achieve a specific handicap level or earn a scholarship . It can also define a level of performance we want to achieve ( hit my driver a certain distance or average a certain proximity to my target with my wedges ). It can also be a task or process we set out to do ( stick to a practice plan , etc .).
Goal setting is a valuable skill any athlete can develop . Here are some simple , general guidelines for constructing goals that work best for you , incorporating the three types of goals mentioned : First , establish a clear vision of your desired future outcomes .
This is where we employ outcome goals . These are long-term ( approximately 4-5 years ). This is your chance to dream big , so stating this vision can get you excited , but also scare you a bit because it takes you out of your comfort zone . That ’ s normal and actually desirable because healthy , positive change can take us out of our comfort zone just as much as facing adversity can . This almost goes without saying , but be sure that what you ’ re pursuing is meaningful and motivating to you .
Next , keep asking “ how ”. Once you have your short-term outcome goal clarified , keep asking the question “ how ” – in other words “ how will I achieve this ?”. Ask yourself this until you identify a specific , concrete action plan . This takes you from your goals being conceptual ideas to specific / concrete action plans .
For example , if your short-term outcome goal is to achieve a -2 handicap level , ask yourself “ how will I achieve this ?” The answer , upon examining your statistics , may include improving several different skills ( i . e ., performance goals ). So , let ’ s say you narrow it down to three performance areas you would like to improve upon , and one of them is to “ improve putting from 10-20 feet ”. Once again , ask yourself “ how ”. This will challenge you to determine the specific parts in this area of your game . Say that you determine that your green reading and speed control are holding you back in this area – keep asking yourself “ how ?” and you will eventually end up with clearly identifiable process goals – examples in this case might be “ research a proven method for green reading ” or “ learn a proven speed control method ” or even “ work with a putting coach ”. Again , by asking “ how ” from this level , you will develop specific tasks , drills and activities that you can translate into weekly plans for you to follow .
With performance goals , it ’ s really helpful to set up measurable targets in each area to monitor your progress – but be sure that you only measure your progress periodically ( e . g ., bi-monthly or quarterly ). This allows yourself the time necessary to develop the skills you are working toward and helps you to trust the process you have designed for yourself . Also , be sure the level of challenge you place on yourself stretches you , but is also realistic . Setting unrealistic goals can lead to a lack of motivation , but if you don ’ t challenge yourself enough , it can lead to boredom .